Al Ahly shut down Al Shabab approach for Egypt international Yasser Ibrahim

Al Ahly have refused to discuss a proposal from Saudi Pro League club Al Shabab for Egypt defender Yasser Ibrahim during the current summer transfer window.

A source within Al Ahly told Saudi newspaper Okaz that Al Shabab formally contacted the Egyptian club to explore the possibility of signing the centre-back. The Saudi club identified Ibrahim as one of its main targets as it seeks to strengthen its defence ahead of the new campaign.

Al Shabab also made an attractive financial offer directly to the player, according to the source. The proposed contract would have earned Ibrahim an annual salary of $1.6m, with the Saudi club attempting to persuade him to begin a new chapter in the Roshn Saudi League.

However, Al Ahly’s management rejected the approach without entering negotiations. The club considers Ibrahim an important part of its defensive structure and does not want to lose his services.

The source said Al Ahly acted quickly to protect the defender’s future at the club. Officials offered Ibrahim a new contract worth 25m Egyptian pounds per year as part of a wider plan to retain the team’s core players and renew the agreements of key members of the squad.

Ibrahim has established himself as one of Al Ahly’s leading defenders in recent years and played a significant role in the club’s success across several competitions. His performances have helped him become a regular and influential figure in the team’s back line.

The approach from Al Shabab therefore met a firm response from Al Ahly, who have made clear that Ibrahim remains part of their plans. The club’s decision to reject discussions, alongside the proposed improved contract, underlines the value it places on the Egypt international.

Al Shabab’s interest comes as the Saudi club works to reinforce its defensive options in the summer market. Its formal contact with Al Ahly and the salary offered to Ibrahim indicate the extent of its desire to bring in the defender, but the Egyptian club’s position means any move would currently face a major obstacle.

For Al Ahly, retaining Ibrahim forms part of efforts to preserve the squad that has delivered multiple trophies in recent years. The club’s management has prioritised keeping influential players, and its offer to the defender reflects that policy.